The Federal Work-Study (FWS) program is a campus-based program because it is administered directly by the financial aid office at each participating school. FWS provides part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to help pay education expenses. FWS can be used as a means to build a substantial resume in preparation for a job after graduation. The program encourages community service work and work related to the student’s course of study. At West Hills College, students are normally placed in a position related to their major course of study.

At West Hills College you will be paid by the hour in monthly disbursements. No FWS student may be paid by commission or fee. Students are limited to 19 hours a week, but can work up to 40 hours during Christmas break, spring break, and summer months. Wages for the program are equal to minimum wage unless the position has a higher paying salary such as tutors, instructional aids, and van drivers.

How much you are eligible to receive depends on your financial need, the amount of other aid you receive, and the availability of funds at your school. Unlike the PELL Grant, which provides funds to every eligible student, the campus-based programs provide a certain amount of funds for each participating school to administer each year. When all the money for the FWS program has been allocated, no more awards will be made.

Make sure you apply for federal student aid as early as you can. Each school sets its own deadlines for campus-based funds, and those deadlines are usually earlier than the Department of Education’s deadline for filing a FAFSA.